5 NFL teams that must win in Week 9

NEW ORLEANS, LA - OCTOBER 08: Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints reacts after throwing a 62 yard pass to take the all time yardage record against the Washington Redskins at Mercedes-Benz Superdome on October 8, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

2 of 5

HOUSTON, TX – OCTOBER 25: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans celebrates after a 2-yard rushing touchdown by Lamar Miller #26 in the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins at NRG Stadium on October 25, 2018 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /

4. Houston Texans

The Texans were another player at the trade deadline, finding a way to bring in Demaryius Thomas to bolster the wide receivers unit. With the season-ending ACL injury to Will Fuller, the Texans needed to add depth. A fourth-round pick was sent in compensation for Thomas, and the teams swapped seventh-round picks as well.

Oh and by the way, the Texans travel to Denver this weekend, so Thomas’ first game as a Texan will be played against his former team. While everyone else is playing checkers when it comes to scouting, the Texans seem to be playing chess. In all seriousness, this is a great trade for both teams as the Texans added depth, and the Broncos will finally get Courtland Sutton more reps.

After starting the season 0-3, the Texans have won five consecutive contests, and lead the AFC South heading into Week 9. The remainder of the division all have three wins each, so by no means are they on the Texan’s heels.

Nonetheless, the Texans need to continue racking up victories, especially over inferior opponents. The Texans’ offense erupted last week against the Dolphins, and while the Broncos defense is better, stopping Deshaun Watson and company is a tough ask. Expect the Texans to play with a sense of urgency on the road in a game they are more than capable of winning.